The majority of bladder infections is caused by a type of bacteria called E.coli. The bacteria live in the large intestine. Sometimes, these bacteria gain access to the urinary orifice. Then, they move through the urethra to the bladder, where they cause infection.

Why constipation causes UTI

Chronic constipation can cause bladder infection in many ways. As you can see on the image, the rectum and urinary bladder are located in the pelvis.

When you are constipated, the hard stools accumulate in the rectum. The faecal loading causes distension of the rectum.

Because the rectum and bladder are closely situated, rectal distension can compress the bladder neck.

The pressure over the bladder neck causes incomplete emptying of the bladder. That means after passing urine, a significant volume of urine remains in the bladder.

The accumulation of urine facilitates the growth of bacteria such as E.coli that cause infection.

People with chronic constipation often suffer from painful anal conditions such as anal fissure and thrombosed haemorrhoids. Pain around the anus interferes with urination. That is another cause of UTI. It can be clearly seen in toddlers who are suffering from anal fissure due to chronic constipation.

Urinary tract infections are common when you are pregnant. One of the main reasons for that is pregnancy-related constipation.